First Production 1965 Specification Corvette Stingray Hits Auction

Set to roll across the auction block is the first production 1965-specification Chevrolet Corvette Stingray that should take center stage at the Mecum Auctions in the coming month. Not only does this car hold the title of serial no. 001 for the 1965 model year of the Corvette Stingray, but is also the very first painted in the shade coined 1964 Satin Silver for this particular year.

Fully documented, this particular unit showcased the release of the new four-wheeled disc brakes introduced as the standard for this model year. While the set-up could experience some lock-up due to the lack of ABS, the disc brakes did exhibit improved braking and reliability performance as a whole. Many consider the 1965 Corvette Stingray to be the beginning of the evolution of the Chevrolet Corvette’s entrance as a true American sports car.

John Evans helped to lead the General Motors team, resulting in the pilot 1965 Stingray rolling off the St. Louis Corvette assembly line on August 6th, 1964. This example was used for the remainder of 1964 and 1965 throughout the auto show circuit for the exhibition of the model year.

It is expected the 1965 Corvette Stingray, which includes a complete owner history, will fetch something north of $150,000 when all said and done. This particular model year boasts some impressive power thanks to a 327-ci small block V8, estimated to be putting a healthy 365 hp to the pavement through its four-speed manual gearbox.

Moving on to the interior of #001, is an AM/FM radio, a teak steering wheel, and leather seating throughout; quite a few luxuries for the era!

What would you pay for this one of a kind find? For more info visit Mecum Auctions.

About the author

Bridgett Davis

Growing up in Greenwood, Indiana a short distance from the world famous Indianapolis Motor Speedway, my dad would take me to local car shows and events. Through this I gained my passion. Along with cars, I have always loved photography, writing, and graphic arts. However when attending college I did not pursue my passions. I played it safe and majored in business and marketing. After a few years in this field I determined this was not for me and began to pursue a writing and photography career. Landing me here with Power Automedia. I am also now the business owner of Bridgett's Toxic Creations. Specializing in automobile showboards, custom license plates, logos, and website headers. Living and breathing the Mustang life everyday in everyway. To be able to work in my field of passion is amazing and fun experience everyday. The best part is sharing a common passion with others.